Things to do in Luang Prabang

Located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers in northern Laos, Luang Prabang is a city brimming with history, culture and natural beauty.

As a former royal capital, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Luang Prabang attracts visitors from all over the world with its well-preserved temples, French colonial buildings and magnificent scenery.

In this blog post, we’ve put together 10 unforgettable things to do in Luang Prabang on your tour to Laos.

1. Give alms to the monks in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a Buddhist city in which you will inevitably encounter the orange-dressed monks. If you want to get under the skin of Buddhist culture, you must experience the ancient tradition of Sai Bat.

Every morning at sunrise (the time depends on the season), you can experience the monks’ alms procession as several hundred monks walk through the streets of the city to receive alms from the locals. The locals are ready with, for example, sticky rice, which they put in the monks’ bowls. The entire ritual takes place in silence.

It is a great experience, and many are gripped by the respectful silence that characterises this tradition. As a traveller, you can also participate in the ritual yourself and put your alms in the monks’ bowls, as long as you follow a few guidelines: Keep a good distance from the monks, cover your shoulders, chest and legs and participate in silence. If you would rather just observe the ritual, make sure you keep a good distance and avoid taking pictures with flash.

2. Climb Mount Phousi

Located in the heart of Luang Prabang, Mt Phousi offers a stunning view of the city and the surrounding landscapes.

A hike up the 328 steps to the top is rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view, especially at sunset, when the landscape is painted in shades of red and orange.

At the top, you’ll also find That Chomsi Stupa, an important religious monument built for the people of Luang Prabang in 1804.

3. Shop to your heart’s content at the night market

The night market in Luang Prabang is a lively, colourful experience where you can buy everything from handmade textiles and jewellery to delicious street food specialities.

Stretching along Sisavangvong Road from the Royal Palace to Wat Mai, the market attracts both locals and visitors who come to experience the unique atmosphere and shop for handmade goods.

You’ll find a wide selection of products here, including beautifully woven textiles, handmade jewellery, traditional Lao clothing, wood carvings and works of art. Many of these items are made by local artisans and ethnic minority groups, making it possible to buy authentic, unique souvenirs.

The market opens every evening and is a great way to round off a day of sightseeing while enjoying the local specialities and perhaps finding unique souvenirs to take home with you.

4. Explore Kuang Si Falls

Located around 29 kilometres south of Luang Prabang, Kuang Si Falls is one of the area’s most impressive natural wonders.

The falls consist of multiple levels of turquoise water that cascade into cool pools where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim.

The area around the falls also offers hiking trails and a bear sanctuary where rescued Asian black bears live.

5. Admire Wat Xieng Thong

Wat Xieng Thong, also known as “The Golden Tree Monastery”, is one of the most significant and beautiful temples in Luang Prabang.

Built by King Setthathirath in 1560, this temple represents classical Lao architecture with its arched roofs, ornate mosaics and detailed wood carvings.

The temple plays a central role in the city’s religious ceremonies and is a must-see for any visitor.

6. Sail on the Mekong River

One of Asia’s largest and most significant rivers, the Mekong River meanders majestically through Luang Prabang, adding to the city’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

The river, which flows almost 5,000 kilometres through six countries from Tibet to southern Vietnam, serves as a lifeline for many of the region’s cities, including Luang Prabang.

It is one of the most important waterways in South-east Asia, vital to both the ecology and the economy in the region.

A boat trip on the Mekong River is an unforgettable experience, when you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of lush mountains, dense jungle and traditional villages dotted along the banks.

7. Be amazed by the Pak Ou Caves

The Mekong River also allows visitors to visit the Pak Ou Caves, located approximately 25 km north of the city.

The Pak Ou Caves are two limestone caves located right where the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers meet. The caves contain 4,000 small Buddha figures. Most of the Buddha figures are carved in wood, but several of them are also made of other materials.

The lower part of the caves can be seen from the Mekong River and is therefore close to the ground. If you want to explore the upper part of the caves, you will have to walk up stone stairs. At the end of the stairs, you will come to a stone gate at the opening of the upper cave.

8. Discover Wat Mai

Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham, or simply Wat Mai, is another important temple in Luang Prabang.

Built in the late 18th century, it is noted for its large, ornate porch and the golden bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha.

The temple was also the residence of Luang Prabang’s supreme patriarch until the mid-20th century.

9. Visit the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace, also known as Haw Kham, was built in 1904 during the French colonial rule as the residence of King Sisavang Vong.

Today, the palace houses the Luang Prabang National Museum, where visitors can explore a variety of artifacts depicting the history and culture of Laos.

The building combines French colonial architecture with elements of traditional Lao design, making it a fascinating place to visit.

10. Indulge in Laotian cuisine

When you travel to a new country, one of the biggest attractions is sampling the local cuisine.

Although Laotian cuisine may not have received as much attention as that of its neighbouring countries, it is definitely ‘worth a visit’ when you are in Luang Prabang.

Traditional Laotian cuisine is based on fresh ingredients and lots of herbs, and rice or sticky rice (khao niao) is eaten with almost every meal.

Visit the local restaurants and try dishes such as Larb, Sai Oua and Tam Mak Hoong.

Want to experience Luang Prabang?

Luang Prabang is a city that manages to combine its rich history and cultural heritage with a relaxed atmosphere and outstanding natural beauty.

Whether you’re interested in history, religion, nature or simply want to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, Luang Prabang has many things to do for every visitor.

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller!